College is, indubitably, a plethora of fun memories and unforgettable experiences, but it is also a place where you can find your home away from home. Eclectic events, unique communities and exciting opportunities to meet new people are essential elements to the college experience. UCLA is a true testament to these facts, and the vibrant South Asian community events on campus are perfect examples.
If you are new to the festivities and celebrations that happen in South Asia, this is your chance to not only get to know the modus operandi of this part of the world, but also actively participate in the vivacious social setting of college. Whether you are South Asian, or just want to learn more about the culture, this article might just be your serendipity.
Navaratri (Garba)
This absolutely exciting event is organized by the Indian Student Union. Last year, it took place in the month of November, but this year Navaratri is coming earlier, and will most likely be organized in the month of October. During Navaratri festivities, people often do Garba, a dance form which involves circling a huge pot in the middle and twirling to the beats of the dhol, which is the Indian drum. This event is usually held at Wilson Plaza, and as a quick tip, the snacks go fast, so attend early if you’d like a treat!
Diwali
A festival of lights, Diwali is one of the most celebrated festivals across the world. Bruin Hindus, a club at UCLA, hosts a Diwali night mostly in the months of October and November. The event is inaugurated with a prayer at the beginning, followed by lots of dance, music and food. Be on the lookout for the exact date to have a convivial evening with scrumptious snacks.
Bollywood Valentine Party
This event is just like any other party, but with Bollywood songs! Organized by the Indian Student Union every February 14, these parties are absolutely thrilling and are not to be missed.
Holi
This festival of colors is organized by both the Indian Student Union and the South Asian Student Union. Depending on when the actual Holi festival is, this event takes place somewhere between late March and mid-April. During Holi celebrations, people often throw specifically designed colored powders on each other, making for a vibrant and colorful celebration. Trust me, it’ll easily classify as one of your favorites if you’ve never played Holi before.
Mock Mehndi (and after-party)
Mock Mehndi consists of live music and dance performed by students. This event was canceled last spring, but is usually hosted by the Indian Student Union, or ISU, in the month of May. There is also an after-party, which is also one of the most happening events by ISU.
Indian Student Union Culture Show
This is for all the people who find theater and drama to be their catharsis. Especially perfect for the Bollywood buffs, every year around the month of June, the Indian Student Union hosts a culture show to give undergraduates and graduates the chance to act out their favorite dramatis personae from movies to real life. Whether you want to audition or just watch, this is definitely a chance to explore and experiment!
Bruin Hindus dharma discussions
In these discussions, a guest speaker is usually invited to speak on a particular topic related to the Hindu faith. Mostly held in all the quarter, these discussions are most definitely enlightening and provide shrewd insights about our lifestyles and habits.
Needless to say, these are just a fraction of the events that happen at UCLA. There are other networking nights, socials and much more– the details of which are available on these organizations’ social media. If any of the events have particularly piqued your interest, the deadline for intern positions for most clubs is week one or week two of fall!
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Featured Image via Student Media – Daily Bruin Archives
